Swing training device and method of using the same

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a swing training device that includes a support dimensioned to conform to a barrel of a bat, and a ball retaining member disposed on the support. A ball is placed into the ball retaining member, and the ball is retained therein until released as the bat is swung forward. A concave portion of the ball retaining member is approximately level with the barrel of the bat thus allowing the ball to travel along a path approximately perpendicular to the barrel. The swing training device teaches correct bat path and also for the hitter to maintain the barrel of the bat in the hitting zone for an extended period of time, thus allowing the hitter to have various points of contact throughout the hitting zone.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority from prior provisional application Ser. No. 61/923,993 filed on Jan. 6, 2014 and entitled “SWING TRAINING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME”, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a swing training device and method of use.

2. Description of the Related Art

In order to be a successful hitter, a baseball player must continually train. Training usually includes performing various workouts and drills. For optimal results, the hitter must practice having a correct bat path and, most importantly, maintain the barrel of the bat in the hitting zone. When a pitch is thrown into the hitting zone, defined as the point in which the swinging bat is able to make contact with the pitch, the longer the hitter is able to maintain the barrel of the bat in the zone the more likely it is to make contact with the ball, thus allowing the hitter to have various points of contact throughout the hitting zone.

The prior art includes many swing training devices. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,226,645, U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,418, U.S. Pat. No. 6,579,195, and U.S. Patent Application Publication 2010/0323826 and U.S. Patent Application Publication 2013/0116068 disclose various devices that purport to improve a player's swing. However, these devices are not specifically designed to address the issue of maintaining the barrel of the bat in the hitting zone.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the disclosure relates to a swing training device that includes a support dimensioned to conform to a barrel of a bat, and a ball retaining member disposed on the support. A ball is placed into the ball retaining member, and the ball is retained therein until released as the bat is swung forward. A concave portion of the ball retaining member is approximately level with the barrel of the bat thus allowing the ball to travel along a path approximately perpendicular to the barrel. The swing training device teaches correct bat path and also for the hitter to maintain the barrel of the bat in the hitting zone for an extended period of time, thus allowing the hitter to have various points of contact throughout the hitting zone.

In particular, when the swing training device is used, if the ball flies out toward the middle of the field (toward the pitcher), the batter has shown the ability to maintain the barrel in the zone for an extended period. Once the hitter has mastered up the middle, he then can manipulate the ball to shoot to the left or right field, but this will be intentional whereas early in the learning stage, the ball travels to the left or right usually because of lack of knowledge or “feel” of the proper swing.

In an embodiment, the swing training device includes a pair of mounting straps for holding the support to the barrel of the bat. In a preferred embodiment, the ball is a baseball and the bat is a baseball bat. In this embodiment, the ball retaining device is capable of retaining a ball having a circumference of about 9 to 9¼ inches.

In an embodiment, the support and the ball retaining device are made integral, e.g., the support and the ball retaining device are formed in the same thermoplastic mold.

In an embodiment, the swing training device includes a plurality of arms. The arms can be in the form of a thin, arcuate generally C-shaped tab that initially extends outward away from the approximate center of the support and then curves upward and back inward in the direction toward the distal ends of the other arms. Each arm can be constructed of a flexible, resilient material that allows for outward radial deflection upon receiving a force.

In an embodiment, there are four arms, the arms divided into a first pair of arms and a second pair of arms, the arms of the first pair having about the same length and the arms of the second pair having about the same length, wherein the arms of the first pair are longer than the arms of the second pair.

In an embodiment, the swing training device includes a high friction underside surface, which can include a separate sheet of material (e.g., rubber) or a plurality of frictional engagement structures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a swing training device shown mounted on a bat, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the ball being retained by the swing training device flush with the bat;

FIG. 3 is a rear side view of the swing training device;

FIG. 4 is a front side view of the swing training device;

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, top view of the swing training; and

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the swing training device shown retaining a ball.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a front perspective view of a swing training device constructed according to the teachings of the present invention, the training device being identified generally by reference numeral 11. As will be described further in greater detail, the swing training device 11 can be used to promote the utilization of proper mechanics when hitting a ball with a bat and, more specifically, to ensure that the barrel of the bat is maintained in the hitting zone.

The swing training device 11 is preferably designed to be removably mounted onto a conventional bat 13 of any reasonable size, shape, weight or material. However, in some embodiments, the swing training device 11 can be permanently affixed to the bat 13.

As will be explained further below, the swing training device 11 is adapted to be secured directly onto the widened barrel 15 of the bat 13, with an elongated narrow handle 17 free and unencumbered for traditional gripping of the bat 13. The swing training device 11 can be a unitary item that includes a support 19 dimensioned to conform to barrel 15 of bat 13, a ball retaining member 21 mounted on the support 19 for releasably retaining a ball (not shown), and a pair of mounting straps 23-1 and 23-2 connected to the support 19 for securing the support 19 to the barrel 15.

The support 19 can be constructed as a unitary member formed out of a rigid and durable material, such as plastic. As can be seen, the support 19 is generally in the shape of a thin, arcuate plate that is curved so as to closely conform to the shape of the barrel 15. In an embodiment, the support 19 extends approximately 180 degrees so as conform to about one-half of the circumference of the barrel 15. However, it is to be understood that the dimensions of the support 19 (e.g., the angle of curvature) could be modified for use with different types of bats 13 without departing from the spirit of the scope of the present invention.

It should also be noted that at least a portion of the underside of the support 19 can be constructed using a relatively high friction, low slip surface to help retain the support 19 in place on the bat 13. It is to be understood that the low slip surface may be created either (i) using a separate sheet of material, such as rubber, that is affixed to at least a portion of the underside of the support 19 or (ii) by integrally forming knurls, or other similar non-marring, frictional engagement structures, directly into the underside of the support 19.

The ball retaining member 21 is mounted on the outer surface of the support 19 and is generally in the form of a cup that is dimensioned to releasably retain a ball. In the present embodiment, the member 21 is dimensioned to releasably retain a standard baseball having a circumference of about 9 to 9¼ inches (229-235 mm) and a diameter of about 2⅞ to 3 inches (73-76 mm) However, it is to be understood that the member 21 could be modified, as needed, to releasably retain other types of balls, such as tennis balls or softballs, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The ball retaining member 21 is represented herein as comprising four generally arcuate arms 25-1 thru 25-4 that extend out from one another at approximately 90 degree intervals (i.e., with the arms 25-1 and 25-3 directly opposing one another and initially extending about 180 degrees apart and the arms 25-2 and 25-4 directly opposing one another and initially extending about 180 degrees apart).

As shown, each of the arms 25 is in the form of a thin, arcuate, generally C-shaped tab that initially extends outward away from the approximate center of the support 19 and then curves upward and back inward in the direction towards the distal ends of the other remaining arms 25. Each arm 25 is preferably constructed of a flexible, resilient material that allows for slight outward radial deflection upon receiving a suitable force. In an embodiment, the arms and the support 19 are formed together as a single piece from a thermoplastic mold.

Together, the spring-like arms 25-1 thru 25-4 define a concave cavity 27 that is dimensioned to receive a ball (not shown). In this manner, the arms 25 suitably engage the outer surface of the ball with such force so as to keep it retained securely within the cavity 27. However, at the same time, the arms 25 are designed to selectively deflect radially outward to the extent necessary to enable the ball to exit the cavity 27, with each arm 25 thereafter returning to its original configuration due its resilient, spring-like construction.

Referring to FIG. 2, a diagram showing a ball B being retained by the ball retaining member 21 is provided. For simplicity of exposition, the support 19 and the mounting straps 23-1, 23-2 are not shown. As illustrated, the cavity 27 is concave and the arms 25-1 and 25-3 extend respective equal distances D1, D2 from the barrel 15. Although not shown, it is to be understood that the arms 25-4 and 25-2 also extend equal distances from the barrel 15. As shown, the cavity 27 is divided into two portions along line L which is perpendicular to the surface of the barrel 15, forming respective areas A1 and A2. Importantly, the cavity 27 is level with the barrel 15 such that about half of the area of the cavity 27 is distributed on either side. Thus, areas A1 and A2 are approximately equal. Accordingly, the ball B is positioned so that when the bat is swung, the ball B travels along an approximately linear path (as shown by the arrow) perpendicular to the barrel 15.

In the present embodiment, the arms 25-1 and 25-3 are shown as being slightly longer in length than the arms 25-2 and 25-4. However, it should be noted that the number and shape of the arms 25 could be modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further, it is to be understood that ball retaining member 21 need not be in the form of a plurality of deflectable arcuate arms 25. Rather, the ball retaining member 21 could be alternatively constructed (e.g., as a flexible, hollow, generally hemispherical cup) without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

As illustrated, the mounting straps 23-1 and 23-2 are coupled to and extend transversely across the opposite ends of the support 19. As can be seen, each mounting strap 23 is constructed as a unitary, elastic band that is formed as a closed loop. Accordingly, each strap 23 is dimensioned to tightly wrap around the circumference of the barrel 15 and thereby secure the support 19 in place on the bat 13, with the strap 23 expanding as needed to accommodate larger barrels 15. However, it should be noted that the number and construction of the straps 23 could be modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For instance, each strap 23 could include two separate bands that are releasably joined together at their free ends using complementary fastening elements (e.g., hook-and-loop type fasteners).

FIGS. 3 to 5 show rear plan, front plan, and fragmentary front top plan views, respectively, of the swing training device 11. FIG. 6 shows a top perspective view of the swing training device 11 shown retaining a ball B.

In operation, the swing training device 11 is designed to train a hitter to maintain the barrel 15 of the bat 13 in the hitting zone for an extended period of time, thus allowing the hitter to have various points of contact throughout the hitting zone. Specifically, the swing training device 11 is first mounted onto the barrel 15 of the bat 13, and secured thereto by the straps 23. With swing training device 11 securely retained onto bat 13, a ball B (as shown in FIG. 6) is deposited into the cavity 27 and retained therein by the arms 25.

The hitter then grasps the handle 17 such that, with his/her arms extended straight, the ball B is directed both parallel with the field surface and towards the middle of the field (i.e., in line with the pitching mound, second base and center field). While maintaining the aforementioned grip on the handle 17, the user then sets up in the standard hitting position. In other words, with the hitter positioned sideways, eyes directed forward towards the center of the field, and body coiled so as to hold the hands and the bat 13 behind the hitting zone, the user adjusts his/her body so that the center of gravity is rearward and in approximate alignment with the inner portion of the rear hip.

The hitter then initiates the hitting process, which ultimately results in the uncoiling of the body of the hitter as part of a kinetic chain of movement. This kinetic chain of movement accelerates the bat 13 through the hitting zone. The rapid rotational movement of the bat 13 through the hitting zone imparts a corresponding force, or momentum, in the ball retained in the cavity 27. Once the force imparted onto the ball by swinging the bat 13 exceeds the collective retentive force of the deflectable spring arms 25, the ball accelerates out from the cavity 27 along a generally linear path. It is to be understood that each spring arm 25, upon receiving the force applied from the ball, outwardly deflects to the extent necessary for the ball to exit cavity 27, with each arm 25 returning to its original configuration immediately thereafter due to its resilient construction.

As a principal feature of the present invention, the directional line of travel of the ball from the hitter immediately provides notification whether the barrel 15 was maintained within the hitting zone.

If the hitter maintains proper technique, the ball will exit the swing training device 11 and travel towards the center of the field. This result immediately notifies the hitter that the barrel 15 was maintained within the hitting zone. As such, through repetitive practice, the swing training device 11 ultimately trains the hitter to utilize sound technique during future performance. Once the hitter has consistently shown that he can hit the ball toward the middle of the field, he then can manipulate the ball to shoot to the left or right field, but this will be intentional whereas early in the learning stage, the ball travels to the left or right usually because of lack of knowledge or “feel” of the proper swing.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with the various exemplary embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A swing training device, comprising: a support dimensioned to conform to a barrel of a bat; and a ball retaining member disposed on the support; wherein when the support is attached to the barrel of the bat, a concave cavity portion of the ball retaining member is approximately level with the barrel of the bat.
 2. The swing training device of claim 1, wherein the ball retaining member is capable of retaining the ball when the bat is positioned prior to swinging and releasing the ball as the bat is swung.
 3. The swing training device of claim 1, wherein the support includes a curved underside.
 4. The swing training device of claim 1, further comprising a pair of mounting straps for holding the support on the barrel of the bat.
 5. The swing training device of claim 1, wherein the ball is a baseball and the bat is a baseball bat.
 6. The swing training device of claim 1, wherein the ball retaining device is capable of retaining a ball having a circumference of about 9 to 9¼ inches.
 7. The swing training device of claim 1, wherein the support and the ball retaining device are formed in the same thermoplastic mold.
 8. The swing training device of claim 1, wherein the ball retaining device includes a plurality of arms.
 9. The swing training device of claim 8, wherein each of arms are in the form of a thin, arcuate generally C-shaped tab that initially extends outward away from the approximate center of the support and then curves upward and back inward in the direction toward the distal ends of the other arms.
 10. The swing training device of claim 8, wherein each arm is constructed of a flexible, resilient material that allows for outward radial deflection upon receiving a force.
 11. The swing training device of claim 8, wherein the arms form the cavity are capable of retaining a ball.
 12. The swing training device of claim 11, wherein the cavity is capable of holding a ball having a circumference of about 9 to 9¼ inches.
 13. The swing training device of claim 1, wherein the ball retaining device includes four arms.
 14. The swing training device of claim 13, wherein the arms are divided into a first pair of arms and a second pair of arms, the arms of the first pair having about the same length and the arms of the second pair having about the same length, wherein the arms of the first pair are longer than the arms of the second pair.
 15. The swing training device of claim 1, wherein the support includes a high friction underside surface.
 16. The swing training device of claim 15, wherein the high friction underside surface includes a separate sheet of material.
 17. The swing training device of claim 15, wherein the high friction underside surface includes a plurality of frictional engagement structures.
 18. A swing training device, comprising: a support having a curved underside to conform to a barrel of a bat; a ball retaining member disposed on the support, the ball retaining member including a plurality of arms forming a cavity capable of retaining a ball when the bat is positioned prior to swinging and releasing the ball as the bat is swung; and an attaching portion for attaching the support to the barrel of the bat; wherein the cavity of the ball retaining member is approximately level with the barrel of the bat when the support is attached to the barrel of the bat using the attaching portion.
 19. The swing training device of claim 18, wherein the cavity is capable of holding a ball having a circumference of about 9 to 9¼ inches.
 20. A method of using the swing training device of claim 1, comprising: mounting the support to the barrel of a bat; placing a ball in the ball retaining member; grasping the handle of the bat; and swinging the bat; wherein once the force imparted onto the ball by the swinging of the bat exceeds the retentive force of the ball retaining member, the ball travels away from the bat. 